Music on the PA

I e-mailed both the marching band and the athletic department regarding the PA music during the game last week. It seems to me the band had played at least 2 of those songs in the past - why not just have them play the songs? Part of the argument appears to be the spots where the band cannot be heard. I asked if they could play louder or amplify the sound.
Although I am "kind of a big deal..." I doubt my concerns will cause any changes in the future.

Here are the answers I received:

Mr. Altese,
The band can play no louder, it is not physically possible to replicate the sound of those speakers as acoustical instruments are very directional. Enhancing the sound electronically, from the band, is against Big 10 conference rules as was recently confirmed by the athletic administration when the football staff discussed amplifying the MMB. All sports are programmed by the athletic game day management staff. The band is "not allowing" this to happen, it is being dictated to us by the people who are in charge of the event. The coaches, the coaches wives, and the players are all clamoring for piped in music. The athletic department is trying to have a balance between the traditional and what is "new". The expectation at professional events is trickling down to the college ranks and what is collegiate is trickling up to the pro's (as in the Pistons drum line).
Regret that we can not make you happy on this one. Thanks for your interest and taking the time to write.
Michael Haithcock

Mike:
Thanks for your note. I saw Michael Haithcock's response, and I would have offered the same information. We are not happy with this recent introduction to the game day experience either, but we respect the Athletic Dept.'s quest to try to increase the level of energy in the stadium. As you know, it's a "Big House," and it's impossible for one band to fill it with the kind of sound that canned music provides. Believe me, the MMB is playing as loud as we possibly can. Half the stadium can hear us very well, but the other cannot, due to the directionality of our instruments. We hope that the new press boxes assist in capturing more sound.
I forwarded your note to the person in charge of this issue in Athletics. His name is Marty Bodnar: mbodnar@umich.edu
Thanks for your interest in the MMB.
Scott Boerma


Dear Dr. Altese:
Thank you for your feedback on the game day experience at Michigan Stadium. We work hard to create an environment that can be appreciated by all participants - players, students, alumni and fans. With more than 100,000 people, it is difficult to craft an experience that satisfies everyone's unique interests and as such we do our best and realize that we will never hit the mark for all 100,000 plus in the stadium. We'll continue to work on all elements that contribute to a Michigan football game. We appreciate your time and consideration in offering your thoughts.
All the Best and Go Blue!
Joe Parker
Senior Associate Athletic Director